Poverty Alliance: Action needed NOW to lift children out of poverty

We have to make sure that @scotgov‘s plan to end #ChildPoverty – ‘Bright Start, Bright Futures’ – is right.

This important report from our friends at @jrf_uk and @SaveChildrenSCO shows that – despite very welcome action – there is a lot to do:

Union Chancel Choir Concert at Canongate Kirk

Union Chancel Choir

Union United Methodist Church was established in 1857. For over 160 years it has been a hub for Christ-centered ministry in the Irmo, SC area.

Union is well-known in the community for its loving and welcoming congregation, outstanding facilities, many ministries, and excellent music. The Music and Worship Arts Ministry of Union UMC consists of the Chancel Choir, Unity Choir, Youth Choir, two Children’s Choirs, the Union Brass, Mary Bonnett Chancel Chimers (handbells), Leaps of Faith (liturgical dance, three ensembles, all ages), Orchestra (special events), and the ElevenTen Praise Band.

As the primary musical ensemble for “traditional” worship at Union, the Chancel Choir performs a weekly anthem and leads musical worship for the 9:00am Sunday Worship Service.

The Choir frequently collaborates with other Union ensembles for special performances incorporating soloists, liturgical dance and additional instrumentation.

Once a quarter, the Chancel Choir becomes the Unity Choir, inviting people of all ages to come experience singing with the group. In addition to weekly worship responsibilities, the various ensembles of the Ministry collaborate to produce two to three major worship events and/or concerts every year.

The Union Chancel Choir has performed on tour in Austria and Hungary with Dr. Larry Wyatt and the University of South Carolina Concert Choir (2006). They have also performed in massed choirs conducted by Dr. Alicia Walker at Carnegie Hall (World Premiere performance of World Without End by Daniel Elder, 2015) and David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center (Mass in Blue by Will Todd, 2019). The Chancel Choir is thrilled to be going on tour to England and Scotland this summer (2022).

Donald Kirkindoll

Donald Kirkindoll, Director of Music Ministries at Union United Methodist Church in Irmo, South Carolina, earned the Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance from Centenary College of Louisiana, and the Master of Music degree in Conducting from the University of South Carolina, where he was a student of Dr. Larry Wyatt.

An experienced vocalist, Kirkindoll has performed at the White House, Carnegie Hall, and Lincoln Center, as well as concerts in Germany, France, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Bulgaria, South Africa, and throughout the southeastern U.S.A., including two performances of Star Wars in Concert with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Anthony Daniels, and the World Premiere performance of Lux: The Dawn from On High by Dan Forrest with the Greenville Chorale and the Greenville Symphony Orchestra.

He performed as a baritone and soloist for the Greenville Chorale and the professional Herring Chamber Ensemble from 2014 through 2018 under the direction of Dr. Bingham Vick, Jr.

Kirkindoll has directed choirs of all ages in churches, schools, and community organizations for the last twenty-five years. He has served as the Director of Music Ministries at Union UMC in Irmo, SC, Advent UMC in Simpsonville, SC, and Ashland UMC in Columbia, SC. Previously, he served as the Choral Director at Blythewood High School and the Vocal Director of the Tri-District Arts Consortium.

Choirs under his direction have performed at Walt Disney World (solo concert at Epcot, 2011), Carnegie Hall (World Premiere performance of The Peacemakers by Karl Jenkins, 2012) and David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center (Mass in Blue by Will Todd, 2019).

The Music Ministry of Union UMC continues to thrive and grow under Kirkindoll’s direction. In the summer of 2022, the Union Choir will perform on tour at Wesley’s Chapel (London, England), Canterbury Cathedral (Canterbury, England), St. Helen’s Church – Stonegate (York, England), and Canongate Kirk (Edinburgh, Scotland).

He lives in Chapin, SC with his wife and best friend, Kriss, and their daughter, Nat.

Clifford Leaman

Critics have hailed Clifford Leaman as “an artist of the first order…intuitive, exciting, and enthralling.”  (Paul Wagner, The Saxophone Journal) Leaman reveals himself to be {an} artist of technical brilliance and emotional commitment.” “The range of colors is impressive…” (Jack Sullivan, American Record Guide) 

Associate Dean, Director of Graduate Studies, and Professor of Saxophone at the University of South Carolina, Leaman is in great demand as a soloist and clinician and has performed and taught throughout the United States, Canada, Italy, Spain, France, Slovenia, Croatia, Sweden, Australia, Thailand, Taiwan, and China.

Leaman has recorded four compact discs with piano, and two discs with percussionist Scott Herring as the RoseWind Duo.  In addition to his work with piano and marimba, Leaman has performed as a concerto soloist with numerous Wind Ensembles and Orchestras and has recorded concerti by Brant, Bassett, and Dahl. 

He has given masterclasses at major schools of music and conservatories across the globe, including the Northwestern, Eastman, Michigan, North Texas, Florida State, Paris, Boulogne-Billancourt, Strasbourg, Aragón, Escola Catalunya, Beijing Central, Shanghai, and the Sichuan Conservatories, among many others.

An avid supporter of contemporary music, Leaman has commissioned and given the world premiere performances of over 35 works, including concerti by William Bolcom, Leslie Bassett, Frank Ticheli, Stacy Garrop, and Michael Colgrass.  Leaman is an artist-clinician for D’Addario and the Conn-Selmer Company, Inc. and performs exclusively on Selmer saxophones and D’Addario Reserve reeds.

Dobbies’ Little Seedlings Club goes green this summer

Free sustainable workshops in Edinburgh store

Dobbies, the UK’s leading garden centre, is set to host a series of workshops this summer in Edinburgh for its Little Seedlings Club. Magnificent Microgreens will take place on Sunday 3 July, and back for 2022 is Dobbies’ Summer Holiday Club sessions, perfect for keeping the little ones busy during the school break.

Dobbies’ Little Seedlings Club is a free children’s gardening club for children aged 4-10 in Edinburgh which explores the exciting ways children can connect to plants, wildlife and the environment, nurturing their minds with fun-filled activities.

The Magnificent Microgreens workshop will take a deep dive into the science behind the nutritious leafy greens, showcasing all the health benefits of eating these superfoods and how attendees can easily grow their own at home no matter the space by making their very own windowsill planter to take home and grow.             

The not your average garden centre will also be demonstrating all the ways in which chefs use microgreens in the kitchen to help encourage kids to eat their greens. 

Dobbies’ Summer Holiday Club sessions in Edinburgh will take place on 26 and 27 July between 11-12 am. These interactive workshops will explore how children can create their very own summer sanctuary in the garden for plants and wildlife to flourish.

Here attendees will take a closer look at the insects, birds and animals that call the garden home during the summer months, making bug hotels, learning interesting animal facts, and finding out all the ways we can make our garden into a wildlife haven.

Dobbies’ Partnership and Events Manager, Sarah Murray, explained: “Summer holidays are a great chance for the little ones to harvest a new passion for gardening, enjoy time with kids of a similar age and learn something new.

“Our free Little Seedlings workshops are open to all, and this summer we’re showing our young gardeners that anything is possible in their green space if they have the right knowledge and tools.”

Advance booking is required for the free events to secure your space. For more information about how children can get involved in these workshops at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store, visit the following links.

Magnificent Microgreens: https://events.dobbies.com/event-detail/?e=4209&v=0&r=v.

Summer Holiday Club: https://events.dobbies.com/event-detail/?e=4210&v=0&r=v.

Thousands affected by NHS Lothian hearing service scandal

LAWYERS WARN OF MORE VICTIMS IN NHS LOTHIAN AUDIOLOGY CASE

Lawyers supporting victims of the NHS Lothian hearing service scandal have warned that the number of children affected could be far greater than those identified in the independent report.

An audit of the health board’s audiology services found significant concerns in 155 of the 1007 patients treated between 2009 and 2018, which led to some children being identified with hearing loss years later than when first tested.

However, it has now emerged that THOUSANDS of children could be affected as lawyers highlight the 1,007 patients analysed in the audit was just a “sample” of those tested during the 9-year period.

Grace Smith, Associate at global law firm PGMBM, who are supporting parents affected by the scandal, said: “Whilst the audit highlighted those 155 children who were significantly affected by the failures at NHS Lothian, it is clear that the real number of families affected is much higher.

“The audit was performed on a sample of just over 1000 patients that were treated at NHS Lothian between 2009 and 2018. Within that 9-year period there were far more children through the doors of the Paediatric Audiology Service. The patient case load for this time frame was 22,900.

“The audit found concerns with 88% of the records within the sample. If that same percentage is applied to the full patient caseload across that time period, then the number of families affected by the report, delays and misdiagnosis could run into five figures. We know that there are children who were not included in the audit sample who have been affected by the failings highlighted in the audit report. ”

PGMBM are representing a parent whose child was not included in the audit sample – but experienced significant and serious delays in diagnosis.

Grace added:. “One of the families we are representing was seen by NHS Lothian’s Audiology Service several times from 2019 after their child failed a hearing test at birth.

“Despite repeatedly raising concerns about their child’s hearing, they were dismissed again and again and told that their child’s hearing was normal.  However, at almost three years old, an external second opinion diagnosed their child with severe hearing loss. This significant delay in diagnoses happened at a key developmental stage for their child.

“There are clearly more people affected than were reviewed in the audit sample. We would appeal to anyone worried to get in touch with either NHS Lothian or ourselves and we can look at ways to support you.”

The British Academy of Audiology report found systemic failings which led to babies and children undiagnosed or experiencing significant delays in diagnosis and treatment.

It was found that there were a series of serious issues particularly within the under-five age group of the Paediatric Audiology service. The root causes of these failures were found to be a lack of scientific leadership, knowledge, reflection and enquiry in the presence of a lack of routine and robust quality assurance process.

The report found that staff were not following professional standards, training was almost exclusively in-house and insufficient, testing was not carried out correctly and there was no evidence of consistent management protocol or structure for children after results of tests. As such children who presented with similar test results and histories were being managed in different and contrasting ways. It also found that parents concerns were often dismissed.

NHS Lothian apologised following the report which was published last December.

Anyone who thinks they might be affected by the issues identified in the audit and would like more information can speak to PGMBM lawyers at:

www.nhslothianclaimlawyers.com

PGMBM is a partnership between British, American, and Brazilian lawyers passionate about championing justice for the victims of wrongdoing or harm.

The firm has recently opened it’s Scottish office in Edinburgh, with Partner Alison Webb at the helm.

The case is among the first of many that the Scottish entity is taking on in an emerging market for group litigation in Scotland.

Muirhouse & Salvesen Community Council meets tonight

Muirhouse & Salvesen Community Council meeting

Thursday 23rd June 7:00 pm @ Muirhouse Millennium Centre

Come along and meet the new elected councillors and have your say on what you would like to see happen in your area.

For further information email lisamurray90@hotmail.com

Young people urged to apply for Job Start Payment

Extra money for unemployed young people who are starting work

Eligible 16-24 year olds who are already receiving certain other benefits or tax credits are being encouraged to apply for Job Start Payment – a one-off payment worth £267.65, or £428.25 if the applicant has children.

Job Start Payment helps young people with the costs of starting a job after a period of being unemployed. The payment can help with the costs of travel, work clothes or childcare.

Speaking at Start Scotland, which delivers an employability programme supporting young people in Edinburgh, Minister for Social Security Ben Macpherson said: “Our Job Start Payment provides financial support for eligible young people who are starting a new job.

“We have provided this payment since summer 2020 and want to see even more people making use of it, particularly given the current cost of living pressures.

“The payment is designed to support young people with the costs of starting a job by relieving financial pressures, as they wait for their first pay cheque.

“We are also helping young people to access education and employment by providing free bus travel to all under 22 year olds. This will help young people travel sustainably, while cutting commuting costs for people starting a new job – meaning that young people can use their Job Start Payment to pay for other costs.

“I would encourage anyone who thinks they may be eligible to find out more from Social Security Scotland and apply for this benefit, which is only available in Scotland.”

Job Start Payment is available to eligible young people who have been offered a job after being out of work for at least six months to the day they were offered the job and are in receipt of a qualifying benefit.

Care leavers can apply for a further year, up to the day before their 26th birthday, and only need to be out of work and in receipt of a qualifying benefit on the day of their job offer.

Young people can find pre-application advice for Job Start Payment, which includes eligibility and award amounts, and apply at the mygov.scot website.

UK Bill of Rights condemned

‘Freedom of speech and the views of elected lawmakers will be given greater weight in law’ under a Bill of Rights introduced to the Westminster Parliament yesterday. The Bill has been condemned by the Scottish Government, who say the proposals are ‘shocking and unnecessary’.

  • Freedom of speech to be given greater weight in law
  • New permission stage in court to prevent trivial legal claims wasting taxpayers’ money
  • Allows future laws to make it harder for foreign criminals to frustrate deportation process

The Bill will ensure courts cannot interpret laws in ways that were never intended by Parliament and will empower people to express their views freely.

At the same time, it will help prevent trivial human rights claims from wasting judges’ time and taxpayer money. A permission stage in court will be introduced requiring people to show they have suffered a significant disadvantage before their claim can go ahead.

The Bill will also reinforce in law the principle that responsibilities to society are as important as personal rights. It will do this by ensuring courts consider a claimant’s relevant conduct, like a prisoner’s violent or criminal behaviour, when awarding damages.

The Bill will make clear that the UK Supreme Court is the ultimate judicial decision-maker on human rights issues and that the case law of the European Court of Human Rights does not always need to be followed by UK courts.

Deputy Prime Minister, Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice, Dominic Raab said: “The Bill of Rights will strengthen our UK tradition of freedom whilst injecting a healthy dose of common sense into the system.

“These reforms will reinforce freedom of speech, enable us to deport more foreign offenders and better protect the public from dangerous criminals.”

The Bill of Rights will make it easier to deport foreign criminals by allowing future laws to restrict the circumstances in which their right to family life would trump public safety and the need to remove them.

It will mean that under future immigration laws, to evade removal a foreign criminal would have to prove that a child or dependent would come to overwhelming, unavoidable harm if they were deported.

As a result, any new laws will curb the abuse of the system that has seen those convicted of hurting their own partners and children evade removal by claiming it would breach their right to family life in the UK.

The Bill of Rights will also:

  • Boost freedom of the press and freedom of expression by introducing a stronger test for courts to consider before they can order journalists to disclose their sources.
  • Prevent courts from placing new costly obligations on public authorities to actively protect someone’s human rights and limit the circumstances in which current obligations apply, for example, police forces having to notify gang members of threats towards them from other gangs.
  • Insulate the Government’s plans to increase the use of prison Separation Centres against legal challenge from extremist offenders claiming ‘a right to socialise’.
  • Recognise that trial by jury is a fundamental component of fair trials in the UK.
  • Prevent human rights from being used as a way to bring claims on overseas military operations once alternative options are provided by upcoming legislation.
  • Confirm that interim measures from the European Court of Human Rights under Rule 39, such as the one issued last week which prevented the removal flight to Rwanda, are not binding on UK courts.

This will be achieved while retaining the UK’s fundamental commitment to the European Convention on Human Rights.

UK BILL OF RIGHTS CONDEMNED

Call for Scottish Parliament to be consulted

Proposals to repeal the Human Rights Act are a “shocking and unnecessary” attempt to remove safeguards afforded to every member of society, Equalities Minister Christina McKelvie has said.

Putting on record the Scottish Government’s unequivocal opposition to the UK Government’s Bill of Rights, published today, Ms McKelvie stressed that the Scottish Parliament would have to agree to any changes affecting the devolution settlement.

Ms McKelvie said: “This shocking and unnecessary legislation seeks to put UK Ministers above some of the most fundamental checks and balances that underpin our democracy.

“The fact remains that we do not need a new Bill of Rights. The Human Rights Act is one of the most important laws passed by the UK Parliament. For more than 20 years it has delivered fairness and justice – protecting our rights to privacy and liberty, freedom of expression and peaceful protest. It has prevented discrimination, inhumanity and the abuse of power.

“The UK Government’s Rwanda policy has been challenged in the European Court of Human Rights. This legislation appears to be part of its response – an attempt to remove safeguards protecting every member of our society.

“As a founding signatory of the European Convention on Human Rights, the UK Government should be championing international human rights standards and the rule of law. Instead its Ministers appear intent on damaging the UK’s global reputation.

“I would urge them to stop this act of vandalism which will have an impact on public bodies that must adhere to it. The UK Government must also remain fully committed to the European Convention on Human Rights and to membership of the Council of Europe.

“The Human Rights Act is built into the heart of the devolution settlement, and any legislation that breaches the Act has no force in law. Let me make clear that it would therefore be wholly unacceptable to make changes affecting Scotland without the explicit agreement of the Scottish Parliament.

“I am proud that the Scottish Government is treading a different path, showing human rights leadership by protecting and enhancing our rights and freedoms, with plans for future Scottish legislation to extend devolved human rights safeguards even further.”

In March the Scottish and Welsh Governments issued a joint statement on Human Rights Act reform.

Last year’s Independent Human Rights Act Review, set up by the UK Government, concluded that there was no case for radical changes to the Act.

Rebrand for Edinburgh First

The University of Edinburgh’s first-class hospitality and events portfolio, previously known as Edinburgh First, has ‘transitioned to a new identity closely aligned to the strong, globally recognised University brand’. 

The rebrand includes the relaunch of the brand’s enviable accommodation offering. The new Hospitality and Events Collection now includes The Scott Hotel, a boutique hotel with 36 stunning suites and spacious bedrooms, perfectly positioned to appeal to those business and leisure travellers who are looking for a five star luxury experience.

The hotels rebrand also includes KM Hotel & Apartments in Edinburgh’s old town, a mix of stylish, modern bedrooms and apartments and, finally, The Scholar Hotel, located in the beautiful grounds of the Pollock estate. This hotel now has a contemporary bar and restaurant, as well as rooms that have been designed to ensure maximum comfort and the best possible night’s sleep.   

The conference and events portfolio has always been a core part of The University of Edinburgh’s Hospitality and Events Collection, and the rebrand will further strengthen this connection to the University.

The University’s conference venues have always helped to attract global conferences and events with large delegate cohorts to the City of Edinburgh, and the team will work closely with academics and researchers to ensure that this grows even further. 

The rebrand represents the growth of the University of Edinburgh’s commercial arm and further positions The University of Edinburgh Hospitality and Events Collection as a major player in the hospitality and business tourism industry.  

Carina Svensen, Director, Accommodation, Catering and Events at The University of Edinburgh said: “The rebrand has been years in the making and our expert team has spent a lot of time analysing the market and exploring changing customer demands. Our transition has been expertly executed at every level to reflect the new hospitality, conference, and events landscape.  

“We’re looking forward to welcoming guests old and new into our hotels, apartments, and unique event spaces.” 

For more information, please visit: www.uoecollection.com

2 in 5 drivers break the rules while travelling with their furry friends

CarStore and Battersea announce partnership to empower dog-owning customers to find the right car for them

With many set to take their pooches away with them this summer, new research of 2,000 dog owners has revealed more than two thirds of drivers (68%)* aren’t aware of the current rules surrounding car travel with dogs.

To mark the launch of CarStore’s partnership with leading animal welfare charity, Battersea, a new study suggests that over half (52%) of us are happiest while out driving with our dogs – yappy days! What’s more, 42% proclaim to treasure them as part of the family, so it’s troubling to find that despite this, 2 in 5 drivers are unknowingly breaking the rules when out travelling with their dogs.

While 1 in 5 (20%) don’t have a designated zone for their pooch, only half (54%) keep their dog restrained while out travelling and just 5% are aware of the severity of the repercussions of driving without due care and attention can entail (up to £5,000 and nine points on your driving licence), it’s clear there is a lot of confusion surrounding the rules of the road when out driving with our four-legged friends.

As one of the first used car brands in the UK to partner with a national animal charity, CarStore is delivering on its commitment to flex to the needs of contemporary car-seekers via the partnership.

Battersea will be hosting training sessions for CarStore Personal Advisors, educating them on how to manage experience centre visits from dog-owning customers and create a more dog friendly environment.

Personal Advisors will also be informed about the legal requirements surrounding car travel with dogs, and the equipment available to meet these requirements. Alongside this training, CarStore and Battersea will co-create useful advice and content to help improve customer understanding of the rules and requirements for travelling with their furry friends.

Kim Costello, Chief Marketing Officer at CarStore, said: “We know there has been a huge surge in pet ownership over the past 12-18 months and as a result, a likely need for individuals and families to purchase a new car to accommodate their new furry friends.

“This new alliance between CarStore and Battersea aims to help as many of the nation’s dog owners as possible find the right car for them.

“Specially trained by Battersea experts, our Personal Advisors will be equipped to support dog-owning customers with the car-buying process. Whether they’re looking for a car to accommodate a large German Shepherd, or something smaller to seat a Cockapoo and a small carrier, our Personal Advisors will be on hand to support and help customers find their perfect car.

The survey suggested that many do not believe their car is currently practical for travelling with a dog, with almost half (49%) wishing they could do more to dog proof it. However, 10% confirmed they do not know where to source correct and accurate guidance, with many admitting to checking social media (18%) or forums online (18%) rather than reputable sources.

Rob Bays, Canine Behaviour and Training Manager at Battersea, said“We’re excited to be partnering with CarStore to further help dog owners travel safely and wisely with their pets.

“With the good weather returning, many families may be looking to travel with their dogs during their staycations and Battersea wants to ensure dog owners have the right knowledge before embarking on a car journey with their pets. 

“When in the car with your dog, it’s important that they are comfortable in their environment to reduce stress and anxiety, so familiarising your pet with your vehicle before embarking on a long journey will help them get used to travelling. 

“It’s also important to ensure they are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you’re driving or injure you, or themselves, if you need to stop suddenly. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, pet crate or guard are all suitable ways to travel safely with your pet.”

CarStore offers customers a combined approach when it comes to buying, selling, and purchasing a used vehicle, blending digital and physical locations to give customers the flexibility and freedom to approach the process in a way that works best for their lifestyle. CarStore’s impartial Personal Advisors provide expert advice and empower customers to make informed decisions that are right for them.

Visit the website to find out more about the partnership and access the content hub: 

https://www.carstore.com/about/battersea/

For tips on how to get your dog used to travelling in a vehicle, visit Battersea’s website for useful advice, videos and downloadable guides: 

https://www.battersea.org.uk/pet-advice/dog-advice/getting-your-dog-used-car-travel

For more information on the rules around travelling with pets in a vehicle visit:

https://www.highwaycodeuk.co.uk/rules-about-animals-other-animals.html

HOW TO KEEP DOGS COOL WHEN TRAVELLING DURING THE NEXT HEATWAVE

  • Parts of the UK are set for a second heatwave in the coming weeks, with temperatures set to reach 28C
  • Dogs are at increased risk of developing heat-related illnesses and start to suffer in just a few minutes
  • Battersea and CarStore have shared the key watchouts and guidance for looking after your dog in these hot temperatures 

With temperatures set to soar again next week, reaching 28C or higher in some areas, it’s important for pet owners to know exactly what to do to keep their dogs safe when travelling in these balmy temperatures.

Looking after beloved pooches is all about planning ahead and being prepared. The aim is to keep them healthy, happy, and hydrated, to reduce the risk of the dog suffering from heatstroke – a genuine threat on a hot summer’s day.

To help drivers stay on top of things whilst out travelling this summer, CarStore have joined forces with Battersea to share their top tips for dog-owning drivers:

  1. KEEP THE CAR COOL

If possible, put the air conditioning on for a few minutes before you set off on your travels, to allow the car to cool down before your dog gets in. Once on the move, make sure you have the windows open for ventilation and use sunshades on the windows, so your dog isn’t in direct sunlight.

You should also make sure your dog has access to water during the journey. The amount of time it takes for a dog to overheat in a car is much shorter than many people think, especially if your dog is long-haired or has a short snout – in some cases, it could be minutes or less. Many of these dogs have difficulty breathing and these problems are exacerbated in hot weather, even from 20°C.

  1. TAKE CARE ON HOT SURFACES

Lots of surfaces heat up in the sun, such as leather car seats or the tarmac in a car park, and this can be painful for your dog’s paws, causing injuries such as blisters. If in doubt, check for yourself using the palm of your hand. If it feels too hot for you, the chances are your dog will feel the same. Use a towel or dog bed in your car to ensure your dog is not sat directly on a hot seat whilst on the move.

  1. PLAN STOPS ON YOUR JOURNEY

If you’re travelling for any kind of significant distance, make sure you take a route that has enough places to stop, so not only can the human passengers take a break, but your dog/s can stretch their legs, go to the toilet, rehydrate, and have a cooling treat too. We would recommend setting off earlier in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler and there is less traffic, if possible.

  1. NEVER LEAVE YOUR DOG ALONE IN THE CAR

Cars can get very warm, very quickly, and this can be deadly for your dog.  Even if your car is parked in the shade with the windows open, dogs can become distressed and uncomfortable, and develop heatstroke very quickly. Make sure you always have a plan so your dog isn’t left alone in the car or any other enclosed spaces. If you see a dog in a hot car, dial 999.

  1. LOOK OUT FOR HEATSTROKE

When your dog gets too hot and can’t reduce their body temperature they are at risk of developing heatstroke, which can be fatal. The signs to look out for include: 

  • Heavy panting
  • Glazed eyes
  • A rapid pulse
  • Excessive drooling
  • Lack of coordination, or confusion
  • Vomiting or diarrhoea
  • Loss of consciousness

If you notice any of these signs in your dog, you need to act fast. Immediately take them to a cool, shaded area and ring your nearest vet clinic.

Once in the shade, lay them down on a towel soaked in cold water and let them drink small amounts of cool water. Never place them directly into ice cold water or give them too much to drink as they may go into shock. Try to keep cooling them down while you take them to the vets.

Wherever you’re heading, we wish you and your dog a summer full of safe and cool car journeys.

For more tips on how to keep your dog cool in summer, visit the CarStore site, or for pet advice, the Pet Advice section on the Battersea Cats and Dogs Home website is full of expert information.

Aldi Scotland returns to the Royal Highland Show with more Scottish suppliers than ever before

Aldi Scotland is returning to the Royal Highland Show with its biggest presence ever as it continues to bolster its support of local Scottish suppliers.  

After a two-year hiatus, this year’s Royal Highland Show will celebrate its 200th anniversary, returning to Ingliston to showcase the best of Scotland’s food, farming, and rural life.  

To mark the occasion, Aldi Scotland will showcase 22 of its popular suppliers from all over the country, giving visitors the chance to try a range of Scotland’s best quality products; from Angus Soft Fruits’ delicious Scottish berries (above) to a variety of Robertson’s Fine Foods’ Specially Selected Sausages. A selection of Brownings the Bakers’ most-loved meat and vegetable pies and baked goods will also be on offer.

Visitors to the Aldi Scotland marquee can also try locally produced Scottish Buffalo Mozzarella following the retailer’s recent deal with Fife-based The Buffalo Farm.

Made from the milk of grass-fed water buffalo, which are selected from the best herds across Europe, The Buffalo Farm’s Mozzarella is sumptuously creamy, full of flavour, and has a wonderfully soft texture.  

The popular budget retailer, which was named the UK’s Cheapest Supermarket in 2021 by Which?, is renowned for its relationship with Scottish suppliers and championing of local produce. Aldi Scotland currently works with over 90 local suppliers, stocking 450 Scottish products, and is constantly on the lookout to bring more of Scotland’s vibrant food and drink industry to its 102 Scottish stores.  

Graham Nicolson, Group Buying Director, Aldi Scotland, said: “The Royal Highland Show is a huge event in the Aldi Scotland calendar, and one that we have really missed over the past couple of years. Everyone is looking forward to returning this year and celebrating the very best produce that Scotland has to offer.  

“At Aldi Scotland, we are incredibly proud of the strong relationships we have developed with our Scottish suppliers over the years which allow us to consistently provide exceptionally high-quality products at everyday low prices.  

“I am so pleased to be welcoming back visitors to our stand this year and am grateful to our suppliers who allow us to showcase the very best of Scotland’s larder.”  

This year’s Royal Highland Show runs from Thursday 23rd June until Sunday 26th June at Ingliston, Edinburgh.